
What are Bath panels and how do they work?
The function of bath panels is to smartly conceal the unsightly plumbing needed for a bath installation. More than that though, your bath panels will also enhance the look of your bathroom, especially if you choose them to co-ordinate with the existing furniture already in the bathroom.
Do you need a panel for a side Bath?
Depending on your bathroom set up, you may also need to decide if you need a panel for the end of the bath or both the side and end panel. You will need panels for any sides of the bath that aren’t fitted to your bathroom wall.
What are the different bath panels on the market?
Bath panels come in a whole range of different finishes to suit the various bathroom design themes available on the market today. You can, buy them in wood veneers to match your chosen vanity unit, bathroom cupboards etc. They are also available in a range of beautifully designed and bevelled acrylics and wood finishes.
Are Bath panels ugly or stylish?
But bath panels can be pretty too! They don't have to be ugly acrylic things that bring down the whole vibe of your space, you can DIY some really stylish looking bath panels – just check out the looks below. For more bathroom ideas make sure you don't miss our feature. 1. Upgrade your bath panel with a traditional tongue and groove
What is a bath panel?
Can you buy bath panels in wood?

What is the purpose of a bath panel?
Bath panels are designed to hide the plumbing underneath your tub, and they also prevent water from getting underneath, which can lead to rot and mould. Depending on the type of bath you have and how it is positioned in your bathroom, you'll need one, two or three panels – one for each side or end that is exposed.
What are bath panels made of?
The two most common types of material used in bath panel manufacturer are acrylic and wood, mainly in the form of MDF. The most common form of bath panel, acrylic is durable, easy to shape and is relatively cheap. Usually available in white, acrylic bath panels contain a fibreglass core with a plastic coating.
Are bath panels easy to replace?
Installing a new bath panel is straightforward, and can usually be done by a homeowner with basic DIY skills. Replacing a bath panel - assuming you have a standard size bath and the panel does not need trimming or cutting to size - is really just a case of unscrewing one panel and screwing the other one in its place.
How do you keep a bath panel in place?
0:001:00And seal this back panel use a silicon wiper to clean off the back panel. Take a trimming knife andMoreAnd seal this back panel use a silicon wiper to clean off the back panel. Take a trimming knife and cut the top of the tube. Open then screw on the nozzle. Trim the end at an angle.
Will bath panels fit any bath?
Different baths require different size panels, the most common are 1500mm, 1600mm, 1700mm and 1800mm for front panels, and for 700mm, 750mm and 800mm for end panels.
What can I use instead of a bath panel?
Instead of a factory-made acrylic bath panel or professionally installed tiles, you can also use wooden planks to create a truly unique bath panel. Pre-cut planks or reclaimed wood can be used (and cut down into as many planks as required), then assembled into a panel.
How much does it cost to fit a bath panel UK?
Generally, the cost of fitting a bath is between £250-£400 at the upper end, so it may not be worth the extra time it would take you to do the job yourself, coupled with the risk of things going wrong.
What Colour should a bath panel be?
Bath panel colours and finish options For a modern space, you may choose to go for a graphite grey to create a statement look or a deep blue, for example. On the other hand, a white bath panel or natural wooden colour will suit a traditional space.
Should a bath panel be sealed?
You must seal any joints between differing surfaces, with a water resistant sanitary silicone sealant when they're located within wet areas, such as around baths, showers, shower screens and basins.
Why does my bath panel keeps popping out?
This bath panel could be popping out just because it isn't supported or fixed in properly, giving the impression it doesn't fit. Either way, if it's too big it can be cut to fit, or additional support can be added to fix it in place.
How do you attach a bath panel to a wooden frame?
0:454:04Next align the marker to the front face of the timber stud. This way the button is the correctMoreNext align the marker to the front face of the timber stud. This way the button is the correct distance back from the face so we can confidently mark the center and screw the bottle firmly in place.
How do you fit a Wickes bath panel?
2:426:43Calculate the required height of the bath by measuring the height of the panel and adding the heightMoreCalculate the required height of the bath by measuring the height of the panel and adding the height of the bathroom.
Can I make my own bath panel?
Most definitely! The days of old fashioned faded acrylic panels are over, as now there are hundreds of ways in which you can jazz up your own bath panel. This can be as simple as painting over it with a more stylish colour to match your bathroom design or using tiles to streamline the panel with the rest of the space.
Can I use MDF as a bath panel?
Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) bath panels offer a strong and long-lasting option for adding your finishing touches to your bathroom space.
Are acrylic bath panels any good?
Acrylic bath panels are amongst some of the most popular around, providing a durable and quality finish in a range of colours. They are also very easy to install and maintain.
Can you vinyl wrap a bath panel?
Bathroom Makeovers using Sticky Back Plastic or Static Cling Vinyl Wrap Film. Sticky Back Plastic can be used to update your bathroom from bath panels & shower privacy to covering furniture and even walls, it's resistant to moisture and…
What is a bath panel?
A bath panel is just a piece of acrylic or wood that fits over the sides of the tub to hide the unfinished part.
How to cut a panel that is not as wide?
Cut the panel if you need it to be shorter or not as wide. You can use a hacksaw for this purpose. Make sure to put it in place first to see if it fits, and then measure twice to ensure you've got the right size. Mark a line along the panel on the back side and gently saw back and forth down the line to cut the piece off.
What type of acrylic is best for a tub?
Choose a bendable acrylic type for a single side or rounded corner. This type is the easiest to install, and it works around curves if you have an awkwardly shaped tub. It's not as durable or sturdy as other types of panels, but it will fit most bath tubs.
How to measure the height of a panel?
To measure the height, run the tape measure from the top of the panel to the bottom of the plinth. Screw the panel into the plinth by placing screws every 1 foot (0.30 m) or so on both the top and bottom of the plinth. For added water protection, apply a layer of silicone between the plinth and the panel.
How to take screws out of a panel?
Some may be screwed in at the bottom. If yours is, just use a screwdriver or drill to take the screws out, then pry the panel out.
Can you use acrylic panels on straight edges?
Acrylic tends to be more waterproof, if that's a concern for you. These will only work on straight edges, but you can install them on 2 sides if you need to cover more than one edge.
What is a bath panel?
Bath panels help blend your bath seamlessly with the rest of your decor, resulting in a look that is both stylish and sophisticated. The built-in look not only provides a sleek appearance but also helps conceal unsightly plumbing and pipework, with plenty of options that fit with your chosen colour scheme.
What is acrylic bath panel?
Acrylic bath panels are amongst some of the most popular around, providing a durable and quality finish in a range of colours. They are also very easy to install and maintain.
How to integrate a bath with the rest of the bathroom?
Another way to integrate your bath seamlessly with the rest of your bathroom décor, is to tile your bath panel. We sell special ready-to-tile bath panels which are pre-formed with adjustable legs, providing a 100% watertight surface once completed.
Can you use acrylic panels in a straight bath?
A straight bath requires one side panel and, in most cases, one shorter end panel. White acrylic bath panels are common and offer a hardwearing, easy-to-clean surface. Fitting a bath panel to an existing bath is a great, low-cost way to re-energise your bathroom decor.
Do you need panels for a freestanding bath?
Freestanding baths. This style of bath, including traditional roll tops and contemporary freestanding baths, doesn’t require bath panels, as it is designed as a complete shape. Freestanding baths, like the popular Harrison bath from Mode Bathrooms, don't require panels.
Do I need bath panels?
Of course, this is one of the questions you should ask yourself when buying any bath. Depending on the type of bath you're buying, you may or may not need them (see below).
Tiled Bath Panel
If you’re wanting to make your bath panel more modern, the answer could be as simple as using tiles. Some people choose to tile their bath panels with the same pattern as their floor or wall tiles, which enables the bath to blend into the surroundings much more smoothly.
Exposed Wood Panels
Having an exposed, unpainted wood bath panel is a great idea if you want to create a more rustic, cosy bathroom aesthetic. Wooden finishes in the bathroom create a sense of rich warmth that you don’t get with other finishes, and can be incorporated through bathroom furniture and accessories.
Vertical Batten Panels
For a modern and sleek bathroom design, vertical batten panels, also known as shiplap panelling, can also look flattering on many baths. This style of panelling is characterised by long planks, which offer a nautical aesthetic when painted white, and can look super stylish in minimalist and Scandinavian bathroom designs.
Feature Painted Bath Panel
For a vibrant effect, why not try painting your bath panel in a bright, block colour to make a statement in your bathroom? If your original bath panel doesn’t fit in with your bathroom design, upcycling it is a great alternative to forking out for a new one, and a great way to get creative! White and grey are popular bathroom colours, however pink, blue and green can also be great choices to give your bathroom more character..
Cannage Panels
Cannage weaving is a popular trend that many people have been incorporating into their home over the past few years, and the material has also been making waves in bathrooms too. Cane webbing can be fastened onto wooden bath panels to create a modern, Scandinavian design that is super pleasing to the eye.
Board and Batten Panels
This traditional style of panelling can offer something a little different to your bath panel design, and is very easy to create. The thin battens can elevate a standard bath panel by giving more definition and style to make it into a design feature instead of a plain, flat panel.
What size is a bath panel?
Bath panels are available in similar sizes to standard baths; the most common bath size in the UK is 1700mm long.
What are bath panels made of?
Bath panels are traditionally made from two materials - acrylic and wood, usually MDF. Wooden bath panels will be between 5 - 18mm in thickness while acrylic bath panels feature a fibreglass core wrapped in plastic. They are often cheaper than MDF panels and can be easier to cut as they are thinner.
How many panels are there in a bathroom?
All bathrooms will have a minimum of one panel for a bath and a maximum of three - they can cover both ends, or both sides, and the front. The various types of bath panel include a range of designs and finishes, including acrylic, wood, mirrors and even panels with storage capabilities. A bath panel is one of the easiest ways to give your bathroom ...
What is the longest part of a bath?
These measurements are for front bath panels - the longest part of the bath.
Can you use a batten to attach a panel to a wall?
If you are simply replacing a panel, you could find that there is a batten attached to the wall for you to secure the panel against. Therefore, you can apply adhesive to the panel to stick to the batten. You could use a batten on the back of the panel to attach to the wall batten.
Can a L shaped panel be left free standing?
If you have made an “L”-shaped panel, it could be left free-standing if secure enough. However, there are options available for securing a panel in place.
Can you use glue to attach battens?
If you don’t want to use screws, you can use a strong adhesive to attach the battens.
What is a bath panel?
Bath panels are an essential part of any bathroom suite; they create a clean-cut finish to your bathroom by covering any remaining pipework which would ruin the overall look of your bathroom, while also protecting vital fixtures and fixings. With many styles and finishes available, choosing the correct bath panels for your bathroom has ...
What is a storage bath panel?
Storage bath panels are ideal for smaller bathroom spaces as they allow you to hide away any bathroom essentials that may make your bathroom appear cluttered. You can never have too much storage space in a bathroom for spares such as toilet rolls or necessities like bleach and cleaners.
Are bath panels a standard size?
You can find standard sized bath panels which are suitable for straight baths. Always revise any information regarding sizing as this can be one of the most important aspects of installing any bath.
How do you secure a bath panel?
A bath panel is secured using screws and sealant to keep it positioned in place. If you’re fitting a bath panel into a family bathroom it’s important to ensure that the panel is fixed permanently, especially if young children are in the room.
How long does it take to install a bath panel?
The installation of a bath panel is a fairly straightforward bathroom DIY task. In fact, you can usually fit a new bath panel in a matter of hours. Of course, there are different sections to consider and the process of fitting an acrylic bath panel vs a wooden one will vary slightly.
Why do you need timber for bath panels?
Timber is needed to assist with the fitting on each panel and the rebate will allow you to judge exactly where the panels should be positioned. Always follow the exact bath panel installation process to ensure that the panel is fitted securely and won’t need to be repaired in the immediate future.
What is the key element in choosing a bath panel?
A key element in choosing your new bath panel is making sure you get the correct size for your bath, so making sure your measurements are accurate is vital . Bath panels create a neat finish for your bath so you want to ensure you achieve this finish – you will be pleased to know many of our baths come with the suggested panels to help you out!
How to update a bath panel?
A really quick way to update your bath panel and give your space an entirely new look is to get a tongue and groove bath panel. You can pick them up really cheaply from places like Wickes, and B&Q and install them yourself, just make sure you measure up your bath properly. As these panels are usually wood, you can paint them any colour you like too with a good waterproof paint.
Can you use plywood for a bath panel?
You can also pick up plywood really cheaply, cut it to size and use that as your bath panel. Check out this bath panel idea, where beading has been adding to create a panelling effect. You can do this so easily with just some decorating beading, a saw, a mitre box, and some wood glue. Then just paint over the whole thing – we love this black/blue and how it works with the pale pink.
Can you tile a bath panel?
Tiling a bath panel is easier than you think – just see it like tiling a kitchen splashback. Running your floor tiles up the side of the bath creates a really clean, seamless look that's perfect for a more modern bathroom. You could, of course, get more creative and copy the ombre effect going on in this bathroom – a gorgeous look for a smaller space.
What is a bath panel?
Bath Panels. Bath panels are an essential item for a non-freestanding bath. The function of bath panels is to smartly conceal the unsightly plumbing needed for a bath installation. More than that though, your bath panels will also enhance the look of your bathroom, especially if you choose them to co-ordinate with the existing furniture already in ...
Can you buy bath panels in wood?
Bath panels come in a whole range of different finishes to suit the various bathroom design themes available on the market today. You can, buy them in wood veneers to match your chosen vanity unit, bathroom cupboards etc. They are also available in a range of beautifully designed and bevelled acrylics and wood finishes.
